On 4th and 5th October 2011, Marine Scotland hosted the 2nd Annual UK Aquaculture Forum in Brussels.
Attendees included representatives from constituent governments and environmental agencies along with industry representatives. Marine Scotland was represented by Willie Cowan (Head of Performance, Aquaculture & Recreational Fisheries) and Ann Moffat (European and International Aquaculture Policy Manager).
Business Meeting
The Forum was opened by Struan Stevenson, Scottish MEP and Senior Vice President of the EU Parliament's Fisheries Committee, who provided the EU Parliament update on aquaculture. Representatives from the devolved governments then provided updates on aquaculture activities from their areas of remit, followed by updates from industry. The first day concluded with presentations from experts on aquaculture health and management.
On the 2nd day of the Forum, guest speakers from DG MARE and DG Enviro gave presentations on the Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy and Common Market Organisation, as well as Aquatic Animal Health Issues.
Networking Reception
On the evening of 4th October, the first day of the Forum was followed by a reception in Scotland House where industry representatives spoke about the continuing success story of the UK aquaculture industry, the prospects for growth, and how EU institutions can assist.
The reception was attended by MEPs involved in Fisheries and Environment committees from various member states, as well as influential figures within the Commission. A range of Scottish seafood was showcased at both lunch and the reception and the quality of the produce was met with high praise from attendees.